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Program Overview

In focusing on Latinos, it is the intention of this presentation to concentrate on a group whose growing numerical significance in the United States is undeniable. Over the last 10 years, the Latino population in the United States has grown 58% to reach over 35 million, with Latinos representing one in eight of all Americans. The potential language barriers faced by Latino populations are also significant. The Census 2000 Supplementary Survey estimates that over 44 million Americans over the age of five speak a language other than English at home, and that for 62% of those 44 million, that language spoken in the home is Spanish.

In addition to their high growth and relative need of language services, working with Latinos--because of the wide variety of their countries of origin--offers a unique opportunity for insights into the interplay of culture and language in the healthcare setting. By specifically addressing language and cultural issues, we hope to learn more about what is needed for providers to effectively ensure equal access to health services for Non-English Proficient and Limited English Proficient populations.